Leeds United Ex-Defender Reveals Mental Health Struggles: Did They Make The Right Call?

Leeds United Ex-Defender Reveals Mental Health Struggles: Did They Make The Right Call? Rasmus Kristensen has spoken openly about the depression and pressure he experienced at Leeds United, explaining why his permanent departure made sense for both parties. Leeds United have settled into a more stable Premier League campaign under Daniel Farke, with their summer recruitment strengthening several important positions. The Whites sit 12th after nine matches, collecting 11 points from two wins, five draws and two defeats, while scoring nine goals and conceding eight. At right-back, Farke has dependable options in Jayden Bogle and James Justin. Bogle has scored twice in seven appearances this season, while Justin has added one goal across his seven outings. Both provide attacking runs and defensive cover, allowing Leeds to maintain their physical approach without another immediate investment in the position. Their emergence also reflects how much the club have changed since Kristensen struggled to establish himself at Elland Road. That contrasts sharply with Leeds’ previous relegation campaign, when several expensive signings struggled to settle. One former defender has now revealed how deeply that period affected him personally. Kristensen opens up about Leeds United struggles According to Sport Witness , Rasmus Kristensen discussed his mental health difficulties during an interview with Ajax Life, admitting that his season at Leeds left him suffering from stress and depression. The Danish international arrived from Red Bull Salzburg in 2022 for approximately £11m, reuniting with Jesse Marsch. He made 30 appearances during Leeds’ relegation campaign, but the pressure eventually became overwhelming. “By the end of that season, I was completely broken,” Kristensen explained. He admitted that he defined himself entirely through football, constantly thinking about training or matches even when spending time away from the pitch. His subsequent loan spell at Roma brought little relief, with Italian football adding another layer of pressure. Frankfurt offered a healthier environment, particularly after the birth of his son helped him establish a better balance between family life and his career. In summer 2026, the 29-year-old returned permanently to boyhood club Midtjylland for approximately £5m, bringing his family closer to home. Did Leeds United make the right decision selling Kristensen? LEEDS, ENGLAND – MAY 13: Rasmus Kristensen of Leeds United reacts after the draw during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Newcastle United at Elland Road on May 13, 2023 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) Leeds made the right decision by allowing Kristensen to leave permanently. Recovering a meaningful fee for a defender who struggled during their relegation campaign represented sensible financial management, while his departure opened space for more reliable Premier League options. Farke’s current system demands positional discipline, technical composure and intelligent movement from full-backs. Bogle and Justin provide those qualities more consistently, giving Leeds greater balance across the defence. Yet the decision also benefited Kristensen personally. His admission about depression shows how badly his time at Elland Road affected him, and forcing another return would have served neither the player nor the club. Leeds United needed a dependable right-back, while Kristensen needed an environment where football stopped consuming every part of his life.